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BLACK POWERBALL WINNER HAS BIG PLANS FOR HIS MILLIONS P6

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NOVEMBER 22, 2018 |FREE

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Volume 88 | Number 5

TRAVIS SCOTT

DE’LINDSEY MACK family blames ‘social media persona’ for murder

Houston honors rapper

ENTERTAINMENT VIOLA DAVIS shines in ‘Widows’

H PAGE 7

P5 HS SPORTS MALIK HORNSBY finishing strong at Ft. Bend Marshall

P11 TOP EVENTS

HBCU rivals face off Sat., Nov. 24 H PAGE 9

Deloyd Parker, Trustee Rhonda Skillern-Jones and Treyvon Waddy at Black Parents’ Town Hall Meeting on Educational Excellence.

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 22 | 2018

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Family sends warning after Lamar teen killed Defender News Services

The family of a murdered teen is sending a warning to others after learning of a persona the teen had on social media that portrayed him as a gangster. De’Lindsey Dwayne Mack, 18, was shot multiple times on Nov. 16 as he walked near Lamar High School. Houston Police Executive Assistant Chief Troy Finner said it appears the shooter was sending a message. “Once the suspect fired upon the male and female, the male went down. The suspect stood over De’Lindsey and fired more shots,” Finner said. The family held a news conference to warn of what can happen if parents don’t keep an eye on children’s De’Lindsey Dwayne Mack accounts. One family friend commented that Mack was a “bedroom gangster” – a teen with a secret hidden within his smart phone. “If you don’t get into your kids’ social media pages, you’ll be where I am,” said the teen’s father, Dwight D. Mack. “It’s sad that someone can create a persona on social media to make someone hate them that bad.” Mack was approached by three young men near the campus, police said, and the gunman

shot at him on the sidewalk. Finner said gang activity might have been involved. Dr. D. Z. Cofield, pastor of Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church and family spokesman, didn’t deny that gang activity might have been a factor in the shooting, but said Mack only portrayed himself as a gang member. One of Mack’s posts on his Instagram page showed a photo of the teen holding cash and a gun, for example, Cofield said. By all other accounts, Mack was a “big talker,” but not a gangster, according to the pastor. “When we heard about the kind of shooting it was, clearly a shooting that was intended to end his life, and anger and vengeance behind it, we were dumbfounded,” Cofield said. “We want to remind parents that in this age of technology, that we have to parent in a different way,” a statement from the family said. “You have to parent with the reality that now it is not just about watching them physically and mentally; now you have to watch any image that your child puts out through social media, especially when it doesn’t reflect them accurately. Oftentimes children project an image that they glorify and not their reality. Just a few wrong strokes on a computer can cost a child his life.”

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Well-known volunteer Lora Clemmons dies Defender News Service

Lora Clemmons, an arts patron, community volunteer and fashion icon, died Nov. 11 at age 66. She was active in supporting local organizations and institutions, including the Ensemble Theatre, Museum of Fine Arts and South Central YMCA. She served on the boards of the Houston Grand Opera, Houston Symphony Society, Society for the Performing Arts and Friends of the Texas Medical Center Library. She also served on various committees for the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Star of Hope, Houston Area Urban League and the League’s Whitney M. Young Society. For more than 37 years, she was office manager at the medical practice of her husband, Dr. John B. Clemmons Jr. She loved fashion and was selected as a Houston Chronicle’s Best Dressed Honoree in 1997 and 1999, and in 2001, became a member of the Best Dressed Hall of Fame. The late Lora Clemmons Lora Jean Randle was born in Fort Hood, TX. She attended Houston’s Jack Yates High School, where she was a majorette and student body president. She enjoyed spending time with neighborhood friends and with her younger brother, Dr. Lucious Randle Jr., with whom she had a special bond. After high school she enrolled in Fisk University, where she majored in English and drama. Following graduation, she attended Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University in Houston. She and her husband were married in 1980. After practicing family law for five years, she joined her husband’s medical practice and was beloved by patients, their families and the office staff. In addition to her husband and brother, survivors include her stepsisters, Linda Lott, D.D.S. and Chere D. Lott, and nieces Lauren Randle and Leah Randle.

localbriefs AFTER A CONTENTIOUS ELECTION, THE HOUSTON NAACP chose to stick with the status quo, re-electing James Douglas as president. Other longtime members Claude Cummings, Carroll Robinson and Belinda Everette also won top officer positions over a group of newer members. The election – which saw the highest voter turnout in the chapter’s 100-year history – was the climax of a heated campaign over recent weeks. Nearly 1,000 votes were cast by secret ballot at the branch’s Wheeler Avenue headquarters, with the Douglasled slate attracting roughly double the votes of the opponents. The younger challengers say they plan

to appeal to the national headquarters, alleging fraud……..FAMILY MEMBERS OF MURDER VICTIMS recently marched in Third Ward, asking for an end to the gun violence plaguing the Houston neighborhood. Pain has turned to action for the mothers of the victims who have seen their club unfortunately grow in membership over the years. One mother lamented the death of her two sons – within the same month. Daquarius Tucker, 19, was killed only weeks before his brother, Damarcus Tucker, was killed in a drive-by shooting. Police said it was a case of mistaken identity. The march was in memory of Daquarius’ birthday. His mother, Ola Tucker, along

with other mothers of murder victims and advocates for stricter gun laws, chanted as they walked through the neighborhood……..THE CITY OF HOUSTON IS HOSTING SATURDAY RECOVERY FAIRS for people impacted by Hurricane Harvey. There are three remaining fairs: Dec. 1, 9 a.m., Third Ward MultiService Center, 3611 Ennis; Dec. 8, 10 a.m., Marian Community Center, 11101 S. Gessner; and Dec. 15, 9 a.m., Deluxe Theatre, 3303 Lyons Ave. Case managers will be on hand to assist clients. Most participating agencies will require a photo ID, proof of income and a utility bill for current address. For more information visit houstonrecovers.org

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NOVEMBER 22 | 2018 | DEFENDER

national

U.S.briefs ANDREW GILLUM CONCEDED AGAIN in his hard-fought campaign for Florida governor. Gillum, who tried to energize Florida’s young and minority voters through a Democratic coalition seeking to end two decades of Republican control of the governor’s office, was vying to become the first Black to hold the post. After a grueling recount, Gillum congratulated Republican Ron DeSantis and vowed to remain politically active even though his term as mayor of the Florida capital of Tallahassee is ending. Of his future plans, Gillum said, “Stay tuned.”………GEORGIA GUBERNATORIAL CANDIDATE STACEY ABRAMS officially acknowledged her loss. The Democrat, who came about 60,000 votes shy of becoming America’s first Black woman governor, refused to follow the traditional script for defeated politicians who offer gracious congratulations to their victorious competitor and gently exit the stage. Instead, Abrams ended her campaign in an unapologetically indignant tone that established herself as a leading voting rights advocate. Ending a race while pointedly refusing to concede would typically risk drawing a “sore loser” label that would be impossible to shake in any future political campaign. But Democrats and even some Republicans said she is likely to emerge from the closely fought governor’s race with her political future on solid ground. Abrams cited a litany of problems that she said add up to systemic voter suppression…….. THE GRIEVING PARENTS OF A 9-YEAROLD who hanged herself said they believe bullying and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication might have driven her to take her own life. Madison “Maddie” Whittsett died after she intentionally hanged herself in her bedroom closet. Her parents said they later learned the fourth grader had a bad time at school, suffering constant bullying and harassment from other students. Prior to her death, Maddie started a new medication for her ADHD, which lists suicidal thoughts as a potential side effect.

VOLUME 88 • NUMBER 5 NOVEMBER 22, 2018 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler

Strategic Alliance Manager

Clyde Jiles Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Photographers

Ray Carrington III Jimmie Aggison

Editors ReShonda Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writer Aswad Walker Sports Max Edison Jodie B. Jiles Engagement Manager Margo Williams Hubbard

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Inc. Company (713-663-6996.. The Defender is audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For subscription, send $60-1 year to: Defender, P.O. Box 8005, Houston TX 77288. Payment must accompany subscription request. All material covered by 2012 copyright. (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).

Marcia Fudge considers Speaker of the House bid Pelosi led Democrats back to the majority, and she painted herself as equally liberal as Pelosi. “I don’t have a pitch because at this point, I’ve not Ohio Democratic Congresswoman Marcia Fudge is decided I’m going to run,” Fudge said. “But I would say all but announcing her intention to run for House speaker this: My concern about the [House Democratic] caucus is against Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), testing the same concern I have about the country. Just as there is the waters by slamming Pelosi and foregrounding issues this undertone of racism in the country, of race. there’s also that in our caucus.” While she stopped short of Fudge pointed to Pelosi’s refusal officially throwing her hat in the to make an endorsement in the race ring, Fudge said she has been “overfor majority whip, a contest between whelmed” by the number of people the current No. 3 Democrat – and reaching out to support her potential CBC stalwart – U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn speaker bid. She thinks the opposition (S.C.), and U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette to Pelosi is much greater than the 17 (D-Colo.). Democrats who have signed a letter Fudge also pushed back on sugsaying they won’t support Pelosi to gestions that she may just be a stalkingbe speaker. According to Fudge, if the horse candidate for Clyburn or another vote were held today, Pelosi would be CBC member to mount a speaker bid well short of the numbers. – someone like current CBC Chairman “I don’t hate Nancy. I think Nancy Cedric Richmond (D-La.), for example, has been a very good leader,” Fudge or U.S. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.). said. “I just think it’s time for a new Instead, Fudge said the issue is one.” about a fresh start in Congress, making The former Congressional Black Congresswoman Marcia Fudge sure that Democratic leadership reflects Caucus chair made it clear she thinks the voters who gave Democrats the majority – specifically, Pelosi has not been a vocal enough advocate for AfricanAfrican-American women. Americans in Congress. She dismissed suggestions that Defender News Services

More HUD properties failing inspections Defender News Service

HUD Secretary Ben Carson has repeatedly said he joined the Trump administration to fix the “rats, roaches, bed bugs, mold, lead and violence” that he witnessed as a surgeon in low-income communities. Yet under the Trump administration, the number of HUD apartments cited for unsafe, unhealthy and physically deteriorating living conditions has been on the rise. An NBC News investigation found that more than 1,000 out of HUD’s nearly 28,000 federally subsidized multifamily properties failed their most recent inspection – a failure rate that is more than 30 Ashley Matos and her children outside their HUD apartment, which is infested with mold percent higher than in 2016, according to and rodents. an analysis of HUD records. “The secretary believes very deeply that families should HUD said that the vast majority of federally subsidized not be forced to live in housing that’s unsafe or unhealthy and apartments – more than 96 percent – passed inspection. The taxpayers shouldn’t be subsidizing it,” said HUD spokesman department said the recent increase in failing properties is Brian Sullivan. due to changes previously made to strengthen the inspection system.

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 22 | 2018 defendernetwork.com

Black man could be most prolific U.S. serial killer Associated Press

A man convicted of three California murders and long suspected in numerous other deaths now claims he was involved in about 90 killings nationwide spanning nearly four decades, and investigators already have corroborated about a third of those, a Texas prosecutor said. Ector County District Attorney Bobby Bland said 78-year-old Samuel Little was booked into jail following his indictment in the 1994 death of a Texas woman. Investigations are ongoing, but Little has provided details in more than 90 deaths dating to about 1970, Bland said. Little was brought to Texas in September, and investigators with law enforcement agencies in Samuel Little several states traveled to speak with him about unsolved homicides. “They’re able to match up over 30 cases so far,” Bland said. “So far we don’t have any false information coming from him.” If the number of killings Little claims to have committed proves true, it would make him one of the most prolific killers in U.S. history. Ted Bundy confessed to 30 homicides from about 1974 to 1978. John Wayne Gacy killed at least 33 boys and young men in the 1970s. Arguably one of the deadliest globally was an English general practitioner named Harold Shipman, who an investigative panel determined was responsible for the deaths of 250. He was convicted in 2000 in the deaths of 15. During his 2014 trial in Los Angeles, prosecutors said Little was likely responsible for at least 40 killings since 1980. Authorities at the time were looking for possible links to deaths in Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio and Texas. Little was being held without bond on a murder charge relating to Denise Brothers’ 1994 death. Jail records don’t indicate whether he has an attorney. He has a court appearance scheduled for Nov. 26. Little, who often went by the name Samuel McDowell, grew up with his grandmother in Lorain, Ohio. His criminal history shows his first arrest came at age 16 on burglary charges.

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NOVEMBER 22 | 2018 | DEFENDER

entertainment

Viola Davis stars in new film ‘Widows’

Davis plays a widow whose husband was killed during an attempted robbery.

Daniel Kaluuya and Brian Tyree Henry are also featured in the film.

isn’t working for me. I got to pay my bills, so I’m going to make it work. I’m going to take control,’” Davis said on “Good Morning One of Hollywood’s most America.” acclaimed actresses is back on Davis’ co-stars include Michelle Rodriguez and Elizabeth Debicki. “That’s what women have to do,” she said. the big screen. This time, Viola “You have a lot of single mothers out there, you have to pay the bills, dealing Davis plays a woman pulling off a heist in “Widows.” It’s directed by Steve with no health insurance; they have to get it done. And this movie, you’ll see. McQueen, the Academy Award-winning director of “12 Years a Slave.” It’s for the girls.” “Widows,” which is now in theaters, is described as a modern-day The movie also gave Davis a chance to show off her natural hair. She thriller set against the backdrop of crime, passion and corruption. It is the told Variety that she wanted to know what kind of wig or extensions she story of four women with nothing in common except a debt left behind by should wear, and McQueen told her, “Your own hair is beautiful – just wear their dead husbands’ criminal activities. it that way.” Set in contemporary Chicago, it tells what happens when Veronica McQueen also told Davis that more women looked like her than the (Davis), Linda (Michelle Rodriguez), Alice artificial images often seen in Hollywood. (Elizabeth Debicki) and Belle (Cynthia Erivo) “People have to know that there are different types of women of color,” conspire to forge a future on their own terms. Davis said. “We’re not all Foxy Brown. We’re not all brown or light-skinned Davis’ character joins the other widows to beauties with a big Afro. We have the girl next door. We have the older, darkpull off a heist her husband was planning. skinned, natural-haired woman.” “Widows” also stars Liam Neeson Davis, a three-time Oscar nominee, won an Oscar for Best Supporting (as Davis’ husband), Colin Farrell, Robert Viola Davis plans a Actress for “Fences.” Other film roles include “The Help,” “Doubt,” “Antone Duvall, Daniel Kaluuya, Lukas Haas and heist in the Steve Fisher,” “Knight and Day” and “Nights in Rodanthe.” She won an Emmy for Brian Tyree Henry. McQueen movie “Widows.” Best Actress for ABC’s “How to Get Away With Murder,” and Tony Awards “The heist is just a metaphor for for “Fences,” “King Hedley II” and “Seven Guitars.” women saying, ‘You know what? My life Defender News Services

what’sup CHANNING DUNGEY, the first Black executive to lead programming at a major TV network, is out at ABC. Dungey made history in 2016 when the network named her head of original programming of ABC Entertainment. A 14-year veteran at the network, Dungey was named president after leading the network’s drama development team, helping to create favorites such as “Scandal” and “How to Get Away With Murder.” She was also behind the cancellation of “Roseanne” after its star’s racist tweet. No word on why she’s departing……...Rap icon SNOOP DOGG has been honored with a star on

the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The West Coast legend received the 2,651st star on Hollywood Boulevard. He is being recognized for his charttopping singles, 17 studio albums and his ventures in sports, television and more……..There has been an outpouring of love and condolences from celebrities worldwide following the death of model and actress KIM PORTER, who was found dead in her Los Angeles home after experiencing cardiac arrest. She was 47. It is still not clear what caused her death, though there are reports that she had been suffering through a bout of pneumonia in recent days. Porter was mother to three of SEAN

‘DIDDY’ COMBS’ children……..CARDI B, CHANCE THE RAPPER and T.I. will work as judges in a new Netflix competition series looking for the next big hip-hop star. Netflix announced that “Rhythm + Flow” will debut next fall. JOHN LEGEND, who has won Emmy and Tony awards for his producing efforts, is one of the series’ executive producers. The three judges will work alongside additional artists and music industry players who will be announced at a later date. The series will include 10 episodes and will hold auditions in the U.S., including the hometowns of the judges: New York, Atlanta and Chicago.

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 22 | 2018 defendernetwork.com

Retired government worker wins Powerball Defender News Service

Robert Bailey has been playing the same six lottery numbers for 25 years and plans to keep on doing it — even though his digits finally hit for a $343.8 million Powerball win, the largest in New York Lottery history. The total prize in the Oct. 27 drawing was nearly $700 million, but Bailey, 67, will split the jackpot with a woman in Iowa who also picked the winning numbers, 8, 12, 13, 19 and 27, with a Powerball of 4. Bailey bought his winning ticket at a deli in Harlem. He usually buys tickets at a few different stores, but on this particular day, it was raining and he was visiting a friend, so he ducked into the deli and grabbed a Powerball ticket. After checking the winning numbers that night online, he was shocked. “I said to myself, ‘These look like my numbers.’ I tried to remain calm and sat down to watch some shows I had on my DVR. I didn’t sleep the rest of the night,” Bailey said. Bailey, a retired federal government employee, said he got the lucky numbers from a family member years earlier. The most he had ever won using them previously was $30,000 from a lucky Take Five lottery ticket. “I will continue playing my numbers until this train runs out,” Bailey said. “I’m going to

Robert Bailey happily displays his winning ticket and big check.

ride this out; I can’t stop now.” Bailey didn’t come forward to claim his prize until after he met with a lawyer and financial adviser. He took a lump sum payment worth $198 million, less after taxes. New York requires lottery winners to identify themselves and participate in a news conference. Bailey, who wore dark sunglasses for the announcement, said he wished he could have

kept his win quiet. “It’s a good life-changer,” said Bailey, who declined to describe the nature of his government work before retiring. “I plan to do the right thing with the money.” He wants to buy some land and a house for his mother and set up some good investments to take care of the next generation of his family. He’d also like to travel, hitting Las

Vegas and parts of the Caribbean. Ultimately, though, he’d like to give back. “I plan to give back to Manhattan; that’s where I’m from,” Bailey said. “I still want to be me. I can’t let money change me. I’m going to keep doing the right thing.” The chance of winning the Powerball jackpot is 1 in 292.2 million.

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NOVEMBER 22 | 2018 | DEFENDER

City honors rapper

TRAVIS SCOTT

Defender News Service

ayor Sylvester Turner declared Nov. 18 as Astroworld Day in Houston in recognition of artist/musician/producer Jacques Webster II – known professionally as Travis Scott – and the debut of his successful Astroworld Festival at NRG Park. The inaugural festival featured several music groups and attracted thousands of fans. Scott grew up in nearby Missouri City and frequently talks about his youth at the Astroworld theme park, which closed in 2005. During the proclamation ceremony, Turner also recognized Scott as one of Houston’s ambassadors for art, education and youth initiatives. In return, Scott, who has a history of civic engagement and philanthropic work, pledged to support the Mayor’s Art Scholarship Program, Houston Poet Laureate Program, Hire Houston Youth, My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) Houston, Team Up and other city-wide adolescent and youth programs. Several dozen students representing local high schools and Texas Southern University attended the proclamation ceremony. “I love you all and thank you, mayor. I’m going to make this my goal to come back and deliver every time,” Scott said. The event coincided with the second day of the 13th Annual Houston Via Colori Street Painting Festival. A group of Hastings High School Students from the Alief Independent School District created a vibrant mural of Scott and had an opportunity to meet the widely acclaimed artist.

Mayor Sylvester Turner and his daughter Ashley recognize Houston native Travis Scott.

Hastings High School Students created a mural of Scott.

DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 22 | 2018

Beyoncé buys back shares from Topshop co-founder Defender News Services

Beyoncé Knowles has bought full ownership of her athleisure clothing line Ivy Park from British partner Topshop. The company’s co-founder Sir Philip Green is currently facing sexual and racial misconduct allegations. The Grammy Awardwinning singer teamed up with Topshop in 2016 to market her Beyoncé and Sir Philip Green athleisure line of designer wear such as leggings, sports bras, T-shirts and accessories, receiving a 50 percent stake in the venture. After learning of the allegations against Green, the singer cut ties with the company in a multimillion-dollar buyout. An Ivy Park spokesperson released a statement saying, “After discussions of almost a year, Parkwood (Beyoncé’s company) has acquired 100 percent of the Ivy Park brand. Topshop/Arcadia will fulfill the existing orders.” The allegations of sexual assault and racial abuse against the billionaire came out last month, and since then activists have been demanding that Beyoncé cut ties with the company. Green has denied the allegations of harassment. The British businessman claimed that accusers may have mistaken his “banter” but “there was never any intent to be offensive.” Topshop brand director Jane Shepherdson described Green as a “bully” and that his behavior was “worse than most.”

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MARCUS USED TO STAY LATE AT SCHOOL TO WORK ON HIS HISTORY REPORT. NOW HE DOES HIS RESEARCH FROM HIS BEDROOM.

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NOVEMBER 22 | 2018 | DEFENDER

CLASSIC MATCH-UP

TSU, PVAMU face off after Thanksgiving

By MAX EDISON Defender

or the 74th time in their illustrious histories, Prairie View A&M University and Texas Southern University will face off on the gridiron. The game formerly referred to as the Labor Day Classic will be played for the second consecutive year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, this year on the PVAMU campus. Overall, TSU leads the series 43-29, with one tie. Consider this year’s postholiday game a little extra dessert. In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, the game was played in November in 2017 and PVAMU defeated TSU 3016. This past September on Labor Day weekend, Prairie View was invited to participate in the SWAC vs. MEAC conference showdown at the beautiful new Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. As a result, a nice payday trumped tradition. Both teams will enter this year’s contest with losing records, but hope to get the jump on the 2019 season by finishing 2018 with a victory. New SWAC Commissioner Dr. Charles McClelland views the upcoming game from a unique perspective. Texas Southern vs. Prairie View A&M McClelland served as athletic Saturday, Nov. 24, 1 p.m. director at PVAMU for seven Panther Stadium years. He ushered in a renaistsusports.com or pvpanthers.com sance of sorts on “the Hill” that saw the football program win a SWAC championship and become a consistent winner. Both teams want to improve their records with a win. McClelland most recently served for 10 years as vice president of Intercollegiate Athletics at TSU. His tenure at TSU also included a SWAC championship in football. He commented on the fact that for the second consecutive season, the PVAMU-TSU game will be played after Thanksgiving as opposed to Labor Day weekend. Which date is most desirable? “It’s hard to say,” Dr. Charles McClelland, SWAC Commissioner, has ties to both Eric Dooley is in his first season as PVAMU coach. Michael Haywood was named TSU’s coach in 2015. McClelland said. “Be- universities. fore I left [TSU] there “Personally, I’ve always favored La- end will still go on even though the game is in November.” was conversation about Labor Day vs. Thanksgiving weekend. bor Day because you get to have all the pomp and circumstance Whether the game remains during the Thanksgiving weekI think part of those conversations have to do with attendance. of a real classic, complete with the pregame hype and promoend or reverts back to Labor Day weekend will largely be left up Last year the hurricane affected attendance. I think this year tion. You can’t do that in the same manner after Thanksgiving.” to the fans and alums of the respective schools. we’ll have to see how the Thanksgiving holiday and attendance Does the fact that the teams now play at home stadiums “People are going to come out for Prairie View and Texas work out. I think the numbers this year will have a lot to say make a difference in the games being considered “classics?” Southern,” McClelland said. “It’s a rivalry game. I also think the about where the game is scheduled.” “I think it will always be a classic,” McClelland said. rivalry game needs to mean something. Administrative changes at both schools could also be a “However, when you think about traditional HBCU games that “That’s always been the dilemma. Playing at the beginning factor as to when the games are played. are considered classics they’re played at a neutral site. of the season, the stakes are high and teams come out rusty. “Keep in mind that administrations have changed, from “We used to play the game at NRG Stadium. Last year the Normally the school that wins [around] Labor Day goes on to the presidents to the new athletic directors at both institutions,” game was played at Texas Southern’s home field (BBVA Comhave success during the season. That’s how important that game McClelland continued. “The advantage Labor Day has is at pass Stadium). This year it will be played at Prairie View. had become. the beginning of the [school] year you have a high degree of “One thing is for certain – all the activities that normally “Ultimately, revenue and fan participation will be the critepreseason excitement and both teams are 0-0. lead up to the game when it was held during Labor Day weekria that determine when the game is played,” McClelland said.

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 22 | 2018

HS sports

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Smith said it’s important to work and play together as a team.

Dulles playmaker

Ainias Smith excels on offense, defense type of guy. I can catch the ball in traffic and can do it all on offense. It really it is kind of hard for a ulles High School defensive player to expect what’s three-way starter Aicoming their way. On defense nias Smith possesses I am definitely an aggressive brains and brawn. player and I am also a ballhawk. Smith holds a 3.6 GPA I’ll go track the ball and locate and is enrolled in multiple college-level it and that’s what makes my AP classes. He volunteers with Chrisgame so unique because I am so tian athletes in his off time. versatile. Dulles head football coach J.L. Geist Q: What have been your admires what Smith brings to the team. team’s keys to success this “He is just a leader,” Geist said. season? “He’s a guy that just does it right all the Coach J.L. Geist said Smith is an incredible athlete. A: Fighting through adver(Photos by Jodie B. Jiles) time. He’s got great character. He leads sity. We had to have people that in school and he leads on the team. He is willing to do whatever aren’t usually starters come and step up. Then the starters that is asked of him. He trains hard, he works hard and cares about weren’t able to play, we have to get in their heads and put a his team. That’s what makes him so special, besides the fact he word in their ear so that they can be able to step up. is an incredible athlete and can play Q: With the injuries sustained, anywhere on the field.” how has your team made it For playoff game & crowd photos visit The Defender spoke with Smith this far? Instagram @DefenderHighSchoolSports about his style of play and keys to sucA: By taking all the hard cess before Dulles was defeated in the work and the dedication we put in bi-district first round of the playoff by Katy Taylor, 28-13. this summer, we are going to keep that in our heads all through Defender: How would you describe your style of play? practice and during the games. Also, our coaches are a big help Smith: On the offensive side I definitely describe my because they always help us out, give us a speech in the fourth style of play as a quick person. I am also very aggressive. I can quarter just to make sure we get our heads right so that we can run you over, juke you or jump over you. I am an all-around work hard and play together as a team. By JODIE B. JILES Defender

Smith is joined by teammate Bramon Moore.

About Smith

Position: Running back, wide receiver, cornerback, return specialist Twitter: @ainias_smith Class: 2019 College commitment: Undecided Scholarship offers: Duke, Texas A&M, Georgia, Southern Miss Favorite subject: Math Dream job after football: Build on his dad’s Christian leadership program World problem he would solve: World peace NFL players he watches: Offense, Calvin Ridley, Tyreke Hill, Stephon Diggs; Defense, Jamal Adams, Jalen Ramsey Shout-outs: God, parents, Smith family in Houston and Corpus Christi, entire team, Dulles defensive and offensive lines

Smith plays three positions for Dulles High School.

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NOVEMBER 22 | 2018 | DEFENDER

HS sports

Hornsby has an arsenal of receivers at Marshall, which entered the playoffs 10-0. Coach James Williams said Hornsby is a great leader. (Photos by Jimmie Aggison)

Ft. Bend Marshall QB

Malik Hornsby leads Buffs into playoffs

ership is really great, and he has a presence that the guys follow.” The Defender spoke with Hornsby ort Bend Marshall quarterabout his style of play and his transfer to back Malik Hornsby, a transMarshall. fer this year from Stephen F. Defender: How would you describe Austin, adds just the sauce the you’re style of play as a quarterback? Buffs need to make a serious Hornsby: I am very mobile and try to state championship run. At Austin, Hornspread the ball out as much as I can to my sby brought his former team from worst to teammates. When it’s time for me to run, I first his freshman year earning them their run, but mostly I am looking for passes. So, first playoff berth in years. I try to distribute the ball as much as I can. Now that Hornsby has an arsenal Defender: What were the keys to of receivers like four-star recruit Devon success against Northside (a 65-7 win)? Achane and three-star recruit Korey King, Hornsby: Even though we had a bye the sky is the limit. Despite only having week, we still put in the work. We played limited reps with the Marshall receivers this year due to the UIL as a team, we played as a family and we had each other’s backs transfer eligibility rule, Hornsby is finishing the season strong. on and off the field. Marshall’s 10-0 record going into the playoffs, and most reDefender: Being a two-way athlete in track and football, cent victory over Santa Fe 53-15 at Hall Stadium in the bi-district you have been a strong runner out the gate, but how have you first round of the playoffs, displays Marshall’s poise to make some been able to develop your passing game this year? noise as they advance deeper into the playoffs. Hornsby: I’ve worked on it. Now I have receivers behind Against Santa Fe, Hornsby me more than I had at Austin. At Austin managed the Buffs in the first half we had a limited number of receivDefenderNetwork.com using both his legs and arm, killing ers but here, we have more than one See playoff game highlights any hopes of victory for the opreceiver who I know is going to get the ponent before halftime. In the first ball. We put in work every day, all day, quarter alone, Hornsby threw for a and that’s it. 70-yard touchdown pass off the run to wide receiver Dalevon Defender: How has the transition been this year coming Campbell and ran in for another 20-yard touchdown. in mid-season due to the transfer eligibility rule versus starting When Marshall head football coach James Williams was week one? asked about Hornsby after the game he said, “He’s a good person Hornsby: I wasn’t really looking at the transition as a bad who works hard. His character is second to none and having that thing. I just looked at it like I am on the injured reserve right now. represent your program is something you need to have. His leadSo that when I do come back, it is time to play.” By JODIE B. JILES Defender

Malik Hornsby is finishing the season strong at Marshall High School.

About Hornsby

Class: 2020 Instagram: @leekthafool Commitment status: Undecided Scholarship Offers: Texas, Texas A&M, Auburn, Arizona, Arkansas, Baylor World problem he would solve: Youth violence Favorite subject: Math Favorite food: Pasta NFL QB he watches: Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Dream job after football: Math engineer

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 22 | 2018

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Happening in Houston For event coverage email: events@defendermediagroup.com

topevents

BLACK PARENTS TOWN HALL MEETING ON EDUCATIONAL over 30 years to support UNCF member HBCUs and provide scholarships for local EXCELLENCE……..The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) in students who may have been otherwise unable to attend a college or university. partnership with its Houston publishers hosted a Black Parents’ Town Hall Meeting on Performers Morris Day & the Time had attendees doing the Bird, the Walk and Educational Excellence at SHAPE Center’s Almeda location. The gathering sought more, including UNCF Director Michael Lomax, Doug and Winell Herron, Chris to raise awareness about the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) and opportunities and Divya Brown, James Davis, Juana Collins, Mayor Sylvester Turner, Angelica within to increase equity in education for Black children. Attendees included HISD Webster, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and others……… TWELVE DAYS Trustees Rhonda Skillern-Jones and Wanda Adams, OF CHRISTMAS LEGACY TEA……..The Twelve Days of SHAPE Executive Director Deloyd Parker, Dr. Janice Beal, Christmas, Inc.’s 20th anniversary of service in the Houston area Defender TOP EVENTS Sheeneva Davis, Linda Brown, Treyvon Waddy, Monica was celebrated with its Legacy Tea: Brewing Infinite Possibilities. More photos on defendernetwork.com Riley, Larry McKinzie, Jessica Richardson-TurnQuist, Honorary Chairs Dr. Yvonne Cormier and Claire Cormier Amber Daniel Hauser and many others……..UNCF’S Thielke led the event that featured Dr. Rhea Lawson, executive 30th ANNUAL A MIND IS GALA……..The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) director of Houston Public Libraries, as the keynote speaker. Tea proceeds benefit Houston chapter, Neil and Maria Bush, Commissioner Rodney Ellis, Dr. Nicole the Twelve Days of Christmas, Inc. families service programs including R.E.A.D. McZeal Walters and more than 900 supporters gathered for the 30th Annual A Mind (Reaching for Empowerment Achievements and Discovery) for at-risk youth. Is Gala to raise money to send 700 local students to colleges and universities next Attendees included Gayla Garner, Joy Sewing, Nyanza and Kennedi Moore, school year. The black-tie affair, held at the Hilton Americas Hotel, featured glitz, Tondelyn Johnson, Cambel Cadien, Kelsey Cadien, Hazel Marie Sims and many, glamour and glad tidings as the organization added to the $9.8 million its raised many more.

Deloyd Parker, Rhonda Skillern-Jones, Treyvon Waddy

Angelica Webster, Dr. Nicole McZeal Walters, Michael Lomax

Emily Barlow, Gayla Garner, Hazel Marie Sims

Dr. Janice Beal, Sheeneva Davis

Morris Day singing C-O-O-L

Cambel Cadien, Kelsey Cadien

Christina Urena, Courtney Sales, Rebecca Francis

James Davis, Marla Mallett Davis, Divya Brown, Chris Brown

Joy Sewing reading

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